World Cup catch-up
Looking back
THE 2022 Qatar World Cup is in full swing and while the ZO is posting daily online match reports and previews, we’re also bringing you a glimpse of what grabbed our attention plus the games to watch over your sporting weekend
THE astonishing 2-1 Argentina loss to Saudi Arabia gave a seismic shock to the soccer world.
The message it sent to the other Group C contenders was: “Take care of Messi and the job is half done”.
Two great goals from the men in green, it must be said.
The fella’s from Down Under were one up on France but normal service was soon restored and Le Bleu won 4-1 going away.
I seriously think Kylian Mbappé could give Usain Bolt a go in a 60 metre sprint. Or Beep-Beep the Roadrunner, for that matter.
The Netherlands were ‘two’ good for Senegal, but I was underwhelmed by the level of football in the goalless Poland v Mexico clash. Both will have to get better or board an early flight home.
Not so the 0-0 draw between Denmark and Tunisia, which was action all the way and anything but boring.
England thrashed Iran 6-2 but I fear there might be a bigger thrashing in store for the losers, who refused to participate in the national anthem over human rights issues. I think we might be seeing players seeking political asylum.
Looking ahead
With teams in each group having played one game, the tension rises with ‘must win’ and ‘can’t lose’ fixtures in the offing.
Fortunately, the time zones mean we don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn to watch the matches, so here’s the pick of the weekend’s menu:
Friday
Group A – Qatar vs Senegal. Both have lost so it’s win or pack your bags.
Group A – Netherlands vs Ecuador. A win each so far, but the Orange army should prevail.
Group B – Wales vs Iran. Wales have one point and Iran have made their point. Little to choose between them.
Group B – England vs USA. On-form Poms should just win this.
Saturday
Group C – Poland vs Saudi Arabia. Can the Saudis pull off another giant-killing act?
Group C – Mexico vs Argentina. If the Mexicans are full of beans, this will be Messi’s last tango in Qatar.
Group D – France vs Denmark. A killer game that will decide who goes through to the Round of 16. Both should.
Group D – Tunisia vs Australia. This time for Africa!
Sunday
Group E – Japan vs Costa Rica. Another one that’s too close to call.
Group E – Spain vs Germany. Spanish flair meets German precision and I think Spain will reign.
Group F – Belgium vs Morocco. The Red Devils should take this one but the Atlas Lions will be up for the fight.
Group F – Croatia vs Canada. Methinks the Croats are sure favourites to go through with Belgium.